Society: Attorney gives hand to Court Theatre

Lawrence Strickling is chairman of the board of the Court Theatre. Photo: Stephen J. Serio

Since its founding in 1955, the Court Theatre, a non-profit, professional theater on the campus of the University of Chicago, has produced more than 200 plays, including 39 by Shakespeare, 16 by Molière and 10 by George Bernard Shaw. It's noted for turning classic texts into lively, modern productions. Attorney Lawrence E. Strickling is chairman of its board of trustees and serves as policy coordinator of Obama for America. On Friday, he will join supporters of the theater at its gala.

CRAIN'S: How and when did you become involved with the Court Theatre?

MR. STRICKLING: In the mid-'90s, I was an executive vice-president at Ameritech, and the Court Theatre was seeking new board members. Dick Brown (then an Ameritech executive) knew I lived in Hyde Park and passed their request on to me. I joined the board at the invitation of Bob McDermott, now a life trustee, and Charlie Newell, its artistic director.

What benefit does the theater provide to the people of Chicago?

We take classic texts and re-imagine and restage them for modern audiences. We are fairly unique nationally, and it creates a good niche for us in Chicago. It makes us a little bit different from the Goodman, Steppenwolf and Shakespeare theaters.

What's the party going to be like?

It is being held at the Four Seasons Hotel and will include cocktails and dinner. After dinner, we're going to try to offer people a glimpse of what we do at the theater. Several cast members who currently appear in "Carousel" will perform music by Rodgers and Hammerstein.

Tell us your personal feelings about philanthropy.

I'm for it! It's been important for me over the years, and I've served on the boards of the Boy Scouts, Music of the Baroque and others. I think it's important that everybody find an opportunity to become involved in giving back either to an arts organization or an organization that assists the hungry and needy in our city.

Court Theatre Gala "A Grand Night for Singing"When: 6 p.m. FridayWhere: Four Seasons Hotel, 120 E. Delaware PlaceHow much: $500 and upWho'll be there: Around 300 devotees of classic theater, cast members and supporters of Court TheatreFor more info: (773) 564-9564Next Monday: Check out our photo slide show of the party at ChicagoBusiness.com/society.